Segmented Intramedullary Nail Axial Rotation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional intramedullary nails are cumbersome to implant due to their elongated length and are typically stationary, preventing motion within the bone, which can lead to instability and reduced range of motion in joints after fusion procedures, such as distal radia-ulna joint fusion.
Innovation Solution
A versatile intramedullary nail designed as one or two cooperating pieces with an optional truncated annular restoration hub, allowing axial rotation and selective anchoring to restore range of motion in adjacent joints, particularly suited for the ulna or fibula, enabling controlled motion and stability in all planes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional intramedullary nails are used with elongated length to provide reinforcement, then structural strength is improved, but surgical implantation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intramedullary nail is divided into two separate components: a stationary proximal portion and a rotating distal portion. This segmentation allows each component to be smaller and easier to implant while collectively providing the full-length reinforcement needed for structural strength.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional intramedullary nails are designed to be completely stationary within the bone, then stability is improved, but range of motion in adjacent joints is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The distal portion of the nail is designed to rotate axially within the intramedullary canal, transforming the static structure into a dynamic one. This allows the nail to adapt to physiological movements and restore range of motion in adjacent joints while maintaining overall stability through the stationary proximal portion.
3Strength
If traditional intramedullary nails completely fill the intramedullary canal, then structural support is improved, but tissue damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating distal portion acts as a flexible element that can move within the intramedullary canal space, creating clearance between the implant and the bone cortex. This reduces pressure on the surrounding tissues and minimizes damage while still providing adequate structural support.
Data Source
AI summary
A versatile intramedullary nail is constructed in two cooperating and optionally interlocking pieces, with a further optional annular restoration hub. The two cooperating pieces, when interlocked, approximate a long shaft, generally tubular in cross-section, with a recessed area on the male piece adapted to receive the annular restoration hub. The female piece is adapted to receive the flange of the male piece coaxially, and—unless a locking screw or bolt is inserted through the flange—the two pieces can rotate axially. Alternatively, the nail can be constructed of a single solid piece.